Join us for a spirited exchange among distinguished professionals in the complementary disciplines of fine art, music, and design on how memorable design ignites all the senses to achieve true artistry in their chosen fields.

With noted furniture designer and accomplished pianist Dakota Jackson, who is introducing his newest furniture collection, Symphony, with each piece designed in a particular musical style

Bonnie Greenberg, music supervisor for such major Hollywood movies as Hairspray, My Best Friend’s Wedding, How the Grinch Stole Christmas and It’s Complicated

Raffi Kalenderian, painter whose work has been exhibited worldwide, including at The Saatchi Gallery in London and Suzanne Vielmetter Los Angeles Project

Moderated by Michael Slenske, a Los Angeles-based writer and contributing editor at Modern Painters, Art + Auction, and CULTURED. His work regularly appears in W, Architectural Digest, WSJ, and Wallpaper* among other publications.

A life rich in experiences – from performing classical ballet and studying textile design, jewelrymaking, silversmithing and sculpture to a fascination with all things mechanical – prepared Michael McEwen for his ultimate career as a lighting designer. It all began with a field trip to a junkyard, where he saw the possibility of creating functional art with cast-offs such as optical lenses, gears and cast iron furnace elements, and sold his one-off light fixtures via galleries and private commissions. Eventually, the constraints of found objects gave way to the freedom of fabricating in metals with unique finishes, blown and kiln-formed glass, and hard woods, and McEwen Lighting Studio Editions was born in 2003, with a show of standard fixtures at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair. The fixtures, which are highly customizable, emphasize clean, modern silhouettes, and Michael preserves their soulfulness through his dedication to exacting craftsmanship and use of authentic materials. MLS designs can be found illuminating private residences across the country; shedding light on such entertainment-industry HQ’s as Pixar and Dreamworks Records; and shining up acclaimed food and wine destinations like Chaya Braserrie, Tra Vigne Restaurant, and Silver Oak Cellars – a testament to Michael’s extraordinary passion for his life’s work.

Our very own resident Art Consultant, Mariela Ciccone, offers some expert advice on how to maximize the beauty of your latest art acquisition in the current issue of Our Ventura Blvd. CLICK HERE to read the article!

The lovely and talented, Valerie von Sobel, debuts her collection of sculpture at Voila Gallery from February 7 – March 7, 2015. A portion of the proceeds of works sold will benefit the Andre Sobel River of Life Foundation. To read more about her new exhibit, “The Curious Art of Valerie von Sobel”, CLICK HERE.